J&K contractors seek release of pending payments ahead of Eid-ul-Adha

Ziraat Times Team Report

Srinagar, May 26: Jammu & Kashmir Contractors Coordination Committee Chairman Ghulam Jeelani Purza on Monday expressed concern over the severe financial hardships being faced by contractors due to the non-release of long-pending payments, especially ahead of Eid-ul-Adha.

In a statement issued on the eve of the festival, Purza extended Eid greetings to the people of Jammu & Kashmir and the Muslim Ummah, praying for peace, prosperity, happiness and communal harmony.

He said Eid-ul-Adha symbolizes sacrifice, compassion, brotherhood and devotion, and called for strengthening unity and mutual respect among people from all sections of society.

While extending special greetings to the contractor fraternity, Purza acknowledged the contribution of contractors towards infrastructure development, public welfare and economic progress across Jammu & Kashmir.

However, he said the contractor community continues to face serious financial distress as pending bills and payments have not been cleared despite repeated representations and assurances from the authorities.

Purza stated that the delay in release of payments has affected thousands of families associated with the sector, with many contractors struggling to clear liabilities related to labourers, suppliers and other essential expenses ahead of Eid.

“The contractor fraternity is facing immense hardships due to the non-release of pending payments. Many families connected with this sector are suffering at a time when people are preparing for Eid-ul-Adha,” he said.

He appealed to the Lieutenant Governor-led Administration and the Omar Abdullah-led Government to immediately release the long-pending payments of contractors and address their genuine demands without further delay.

Purza said contractors have played a major role in execution of public works and developmental projects across Jammu & Kashmir and deserved timely financial support from the government.

He also expressed hope that the festival would bring renewed hope, peace and prosperity to every household.